The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has reassured grant recipients that no social grants have been suspended. This follows public concerns regarding the agency’s current beneficiary review process.

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou said the reviews are routine and legally required, aimed at verifying continued eligibility – particularly in cases where beneficiaries may have additional income sources not previously disclosed.
“This review is not a punitive measure. It is meant to ensure continued eligibility and prevent misuse of public funds. This comes after the agency collaborated with registered credit bureaux and flagged approximately 210 000 social grant beneficiaries for receiving additional incomes not disclosed,” Matlou said.

According to him, the Social Assistance Act requires applicants to declare all income streams when applying for grants, and to report any changes in financial circumstances thereafter.

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He emphasised that failure to do so may result in corrective action.

“The review of social grants helps identify beneficiaries who may no longer qualify due to changes in financial, medical or legal circumstances.
“SASSA uses the review process to verify that grants are not paid to deceased individuals or those who have relocated without updating their records. In some cases, reviews uncover individuals listed on other payroll systems – public or private – while still receiving grants.”

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Some payments may be temporarily delayed if a beneficiary does not respond to a review request or fails to submit updated documentation in time.
“However, no grants have been suspended. Efforts are also under way to improve capacity at SASSA offices to manage the high volumes of in-person visits,” Matlou added.

Beneficiaries contacted for a review are encouraged to visit their nearest SASSA office with the following documents:
• Valid South African ID (13-digit barcoded ID or smart card)
• Proof of income (payslips, pension slips, or affidavit if unemployed)
• Bank statements for the last three months (for all active accounts)
• Proof of residence (utility bill or letter from a local authority)
• Medical referral report (for disability or care-dependency grants)
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree, if applicable
• Death certificate for a spouse or dependant, if applicable
• Any relevant supporting documents, including birth certificates and school attendance records for child-related grants

If a beneficiary is bedridden or immobile, a procurator can be appointed to assist. SASSA encourages beneficiaries in such circumstances to contact their local office to arrange this.

The agency is working towards automating the review process to reduce queues and improve convenience. Plans are under way to launch online self-service options, which would allow beneficiaries to digitally update their information and submit supporting documents.

SASSA urges all affected individuals to respond promptly to any official communication. Failure to comply may result in delays to future payments and, in some cases, suspension or legal action.

Matlou reiterated that the process is about protecting public funds and ensuring that support reaches those who truly need it.
For any queries or to confirm their review status, beneficiaries should visit or contact their nearest SASSA office.